What is the difference between cleaning, sanitising and disinfecting?

22.04.2022

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Griffin Group can provide cleaning services for businesses, offices, restaurants anywhere in Moldova!

Not all of these methods are the same, that's obvious. When you're cleaning your flat or cleaning your workplace, you may use different methods depending on your objectives. While all cleaning in general aims to create a better, more conducive environment, different levels of thoroughness, let's call it that, will more effectively kill germs and minimise the spread of disease

But a method that may be appropriate for an office cubicle will absolutely not work for a dentist's office or a restaurant, for example. Let's delve into the definitions by exploring the different types of cleaning and find out where they will be most effective

Cleaning

Definition: the removal of visible dirt, debris, germs, and other contaminants from surfaces, and objects. Routine cleaning will not kill all germs, but it will reduce the number of germs and remove dirt.

Cleaning is the first stage of any process to decontaminate surfaces and rooms. Even if you are going to disinfect surfaces later on, you need to clean them first, removing dirt, dust and debris to ensure that the disinfectants react more effectively later on.

Cleaning is done using soapy solutions and water or using an all-purpose detergent and water. Areas that have a low level of germ transfer only need to be cleaned regularly without using disinfectant. For example, floors, windows, and light fittings will probably just require routine cleaning.

Sanitisation

Definition: reducing the number of bacteria on a surface or in a room to a safe level, according to established public health standards. This will reduce the risk of infection, but may not control many viruses.

Sanitising is a step up from normal cleaning. It is done using cleaning chemicals that actively fight a large number of bacteria and germs. Look out for chemicals that meet the necessary standards, and always follow the instructions on the bottle to ensure that sanitising is optimally effective.

This method is not as aggressive as sanitising and is often suitable for food preparation areas or facilities associated with food preparation or eating. This could be a kitchen, dining room or restaurant seating area.

Disinfection

Definition: the destruction of pathogens, bacteria, viruses, fungi, and disease-causing microorganisms on a surface or in a room.

Disinfection is a stronger method of decontamination than sanitisation because it kills germs rather than simply reducing their numbers to a safe level. Because disinfectants can kill pathogens, this is the method that should be used for frequently used areas with a high potential for germ transfer or during epidemics. Consider these areas: contact surfaces, sanitary and bathroom areas, handrails, door handles or communal tables/tops.

There are three different classes of disinfectants, depending on your decontamination needs: household disinfectants (level one), professional disinfectants (level two) and - the strongest - disinfectants for healthcare facilities (level three). In hospitals a medical disinfectant should be used, in premises such as schools or dormitories professional disinfectants can be used, and in offices or businesses household disinfectants can be used.

Griffin Group can provide cleaning services for businesses, offices, restaurants anywhere in Moldova. Our highly skilled team tailor their approach to your premises and needs, providing you with a level of cleaning service that best suits your individual requirements. If you have any questions regarding our services, get in touch with our team today - we'd be happy to help everyone!